William Saliba criticises Mikel Arteta treatment at Arsenal
The French defender is unhappy at his lack of opportunities with the Gunners before joining Nice on loan last month
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.William Saliba has criticised Mikel Arteta for "judging" him after just two-and-a-half games before the Arsenal starlet was sent out on loan to Nice last month.
The French defender joined the Gunners for €30 million in 2019 from St Etienne and returned to the Ligue 1 club last season on loan.
But after returning to the club, Saliba was left disappointed with the lack of opportunities, featuring in just two EFL Trophy games.
A loan to Nice has seen his form pick up immediately, winning the club's player of the month award for January, with Saliba critical of his former manager.
READ MORE: Toothless Arsenal have a ruthlessness problem after Aston Villa defeat exposes familiar flaws
"It is clear that so much has changed in the last year," the 19-year-old told RMC Sport.
"When I saw that the coach changed, a lot changed for me too. In this year there has been a lot of change. He [Arteta] judged me on two-and-a-half matches. I would have liked for him to play me more. But he told me I wasn't ready.
Mikel Arteta reveals Granit Xhaka feared abuse by Arsenal fans following red card in December
David Luiz proves to be unwanted antidote to consistency Mikel Arteta craves at Arsenal
David Luiz is a ‘key role model’ for Arsenal’s youngsters, says Mikel Arteta
Mikel Arteta details what Martin Odegaard will bring to Arsenal
"I was waiting for him to give me a chance, but football is like that. When I initially came to Arsenal the league looked very good, so I showed up to training and wanted to train on my own to show the coach I was ready.
"I am happy now. I want to play for Nice. The idea when you are part of a team is a better feeling for me."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments